How to maintain mechanical watches?

Proper maintenance is essential to preserving the beauty, accuracy, and lifespan of a mechanical watch. Below is a refined, easy-to-follow guide covering the key steps, habits, and precautions every watch owner should know.

1. Daily Cleaning and Basic Care

Clean the Case and Strap

  • Use a soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe away dust, fingerprints, and sweat from the case.
  • Leather straps should avoid excessive sunlight, oil, lotions, and perfumes, which can cause fading and deterioration.
  • For metal bracelets, gently brush dirt from between the links using a soft toothbrush, then dry with a clean cloth.

Check Water Resistance

  • Even if your watch is water-resistant, its waterproof gaskets naturally weaken over time.
  • Have the water-resistance checked regularly, and replace the rubber seals yearly for optimal protection.
  • Avoid exposing the watch to water unnecessarily — especially hot water, which can damage internal components.

2. Proper Usage Habits

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Sudden temperature changes can affect timekeeping accuracy and may damage internal parts. Keep your watch away from extreme heat, cold, humidity, and dusty environments.

Protect Against Shock and Magnetism

  • Mechanical watches are precision instruments — avoid drops, strong impacts, and vibration.
  • Keep your watch away from strong magnetic fields such as speakers, phones, and electronic appliances, as magnetization can cause timing errors.

Regular Wearing and Winding

  • Automatic mechanical watches rely on your wrist movement for power. Wear them frequently or wind them regularly to keep the movement running smoothly.
  • If not worn for extended periods, store the watch in an anti-magnetic storage box and wind it occasionally to maintain movement health.

3. Professional Servicing and Maintenance

Annual Inspection

Have your watch checked at a professional service center once a year for:

  • Water-resistance testing
  • Exterior cleaning
  • Basic performance evaluation

Full Service Every 3–5 Years

A complete overhaul includes:

  • Cleaning the movement
  • Replacing worn components
  • Re-lubricating gears
  • Restoring accuracy

This keeps the movement performing at its best and prolongs overall lifespan.

Avoid Self-Repair

If your watch is running slow, stops unexpectedly, or shows signs of damage, take it to a certified watch technician.
Do not attempt to open or repair the watch yourself — improper handling can cause serious internal damage.

4. Additional Care Tips

Proper Storage

  • Store your watch in a cool, dry space away from direct sunlight and high humidity.
  • Always ensure the crown is fully pushed in to prevent dust and moisture from entering the movement.

Avoid Chemical Exposure

Chemicals such as gasoline, alcohol, solvents, detergents, perfumes, sprays, cosmetics, adhesives, and paints can cause discoloration, corrosion, and strap damage.
Keep your watch away from these substances during daily use.

Conclusion

Mechanical watches require thoughtful care, proper usage habits, and regular servicing to stay precise and beautiful for years. By following these maintenance guidelines, you’ll protect your investment and ensure your timepiece continues performing with the craftsmanship and reliability it was built for.

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